Praia dos Estudantes is one of a series of beaches separated by cliffs in the center of Lagos. This one is connected to another to the north (Praia da Batata) by a tunnel. It’s very small, but one that many tourists make sure they visit, as it has a very photographed arch. This arch served as a bridge between two rock formations, and is known as “the Roman arch,” although it is not an ancient construction. It was part of a fort that stood on this site, and that collapsed in the great earthquake of 1755.
The name means “Students’ Beach” (it was also once known as “Praia da Formosa”) but it’s mostly frequented by tourists. It’s always crowded in the summer, as the surrounding rocks shelter it from the winds and the clear water is usually quite calm. If you want to take photos with the iconic arch behind you, you’ll have to be patient -- many other people will be waiting for the perfect angle to do the same.
The sand here isn’t as soft as at other beaches in town, and there are often shells. But it’s a good beach for swimming, despite the low water temperature. When the tide is very low, you can go under the arch towards the beach to the south (Praia do Pinhão), but this isn’t possible most of the time.
For closer views of the rocks and the arch, many rent a kayak. Most boat tours also stop by.
Due to the location in the center of town, you have plenty of places to eat and drink within walking distance.
Beach for: Social Media
Lifeguards: No
Bathrooms: No
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: No
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia dos Estudantes
If you’re staying anywhere in the center of Lagos, you can easily walk to this beach. Just walk south, down the coastal road (Avenida dos Descobrimentos) and you see the beaches. To reach Praia dos Estudantes, head towards the fort, then walk down to Praia da Batata and cross the tunnel. If you’re staying closer to Meia Praia, you’ll need to take bus number 2, which passes by these central beaches (you also have the option of the tourist train). To know how to get around Lagos, see the transportation guide.
Beaches by Praia dos Estudantes
In addition to Praia da Batata to the north and Praia do Pinhão to the south, you have the stunning beaches of Camilo and Dona Ana within walking distance. In fact, it’s highly recommended that you walk over the cliffs to these beaches. For their exact locations, see the Lagos beaches map.
Hotels by Praia dos Estudantes
Lagos Avenida Hotel
This highly-rated hotel is centrally located on Lagos’ main road. It faces the marina and is within walking distance of Praia dos Estudantes and the other central beaches (about 15 minutes). It features a rooftop pool and rooms with balconies.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Lagos Avenida Hotel
Aqualuz Lagos Hotel & Apartments
Praia dos Estudantes is a short (8-minute) walk from this hotel mostly made up of apartments (there are also a few standard rooms). It attracts families and groups of friends, who may enjoy two large outdoor swimming pools, a rooftop terrace, massages at the spa, a fitness center, and local cuisine at the restaurant.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Aqualuz Lagos Hotel & Apartments
Lagos City Center Guest House & Hostel
For budget travelers, there’s this guesthouse and hostel about a 10-minute walk from Praia dos Estudantes. There are dorms and private rooms, with shared or private bathrooms, and a communal kitchen where guests can prepare their meals.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Lagos City Center Guest House & Hostel